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As Europe’s cultural calendar unfurls in 2025, one event stands out as a must for discerning collectors and connoisseurs of contemporary art — Art International Zurich. Set in Switzerland’s most cosmopolitan city, this elite fair showcases cutting-edge works in an atmosphere that seamlessly blends innovation with refinement. Whether you’re a seasoned buyer or an aficionado of the avant-garde, this guide offers everything you need to know to navigate the 27th edition of one of Europe’s most anticipated art events.
A Celebration of Contemporary Creativity
Returning to the chic industrial surrounds of Puls 5, Art International Zurich will take place from 23 to 25 May 2025, transforming Zurich-West’s iconic Giessereihalle into a living canvas of international talent. This year’s edition promises an immersive encounter with original paintings, sculpture, conceptual photography, digital installations, and new media works.
Beyond the exhibits, the fair fosters dynamic exchanges — where artists and collectors engage directly, ideas flow freely, and inspiration is both shared and acquired.
What to Expect Each Day at Art International Zurich 2025
Friday, 23 May – The Grand Opening
The fair opens with a flourish. Friday is designed for first access — ideal for collectors eager to secure early acquisitions and art professionals looking to establish connections before the crowds arrive. The atmosphere is energetic yet refined, with early reveals of standout works, private gallery tours, and curated introductions to exhibiting artists. The evening’s Vernissage is the crown jewel: an invite-only preview event featuring champagne receptions, live artist showcases, and the first opportunity to view headline pieces in an exclusive setting.
Saturday, 24 May – The Social Pulse
Saturday marks the fair’s most dynamic day. Expect a sophisticated buzz as local art lovers, international visitors, and creatives converge for in-depth conversations, live panel discussions, and artist talks. It’s the ideal day for those looking to immerse themselves in the intellectual and cultural dialogues shaping contemporary art today. This is also the day when many pieces begin to leave the floor — savvy collectors take note.
Sunday, 25 May – The Curated Finale
The final day offers a more reflective pace, perfect for revisiting favourites or finalising purchases. Exhibitors are often open to deeper discussions about their work, and there’s a distinct sense of intimacy in the air. It’s also a time when many artists offer one-on-one insights and behind-the-scenes anecdotes, making it especially meaningful for those who value the story behind the piece as much as the work itself.
A Venue of Distinction: Puls 5
Located in the heart of Zürich-West, Puls 5 is a revitalised iron foundry that now serves as one of Zurich’s most stylish event spaces. Within the venue, guests can unwind at the Artcafé COINCOIN, offering artisanal coffee, gourmet bites, and a selection of exclusive wines, including the fair’s signature ZÜRISCHUM sparkling wine, served during the event.
Spotlight on the 2025 Exhibitors
Art International Zurich is, by design, a global affair. This year’s roster includes over 50 exhibiting artists and galleries from every corner of the world, each bringing their distinct cultural lens and artistic voice.
Among the standout exhibitors:
- Keith Zenda (Zimbabwe): Known for his powerful use of colour and emotionally resonant portraits, Zenda’s works capture the vibrancy of African life through a contemporary lens.
- Najib Ahmad Bamadhaj (Malaysia): Offering politically nuanced and visually poetic creations, his pieces are a meditation on identity in the modern era.
- Mihaeng Lee (South Korea): A minimalist yet expressive exploration of space and perception, her installations invite viewers into deeply personal environments.
- Ernestina Abbühl (Switzerland): Inspired by the contours and textures of the Alps, her work marries abstraction with the raw beauty of the natural world.
Each booth offers a journey, not just through visual artistry, but into the mind of the creator. For collectors, it’s an unparalleled opportunity to acquire singular works directly from the source.
Curated Access for the Discerning Guest
To enhance the experience, tiered access options allow for varying levels of exclusivity. For those seeking the pinnacle of luxury, VIP packages include priority entry, concierge-guided tours, access to a private collectors’ lounge, and invitations to off-site gallery soirées and artist dinners. These offerings are designed for guests who value privacy, personalisation, and privileged access to the art world’s inner circles.
Tips for a Polished Experience
- Arrive with intention: Prioritise the galleries and artists that align with your collecting philosophy.
- Engage personally: The fair’s intimacy invites meaningful conversations; take the opportunity to connect directly with the creators.
- Take your time: The atmosphere, the setting, the art — it’s all designed to be savoured. Let your instincts guide your acquisitions.
- Extend your stay: Pair the fair with a weekend at The Dolder Grand, indulge in a curated tasting at Kronenhalle, or book a private art tour through Zurich’s boutique galleries and ateliers.
In a city renowned for its precision, elegance, and intellectual allure, Art International Zurich 2025 is a cultural gem that brings together the world’s finest in contemporary expression. It’s more than an art fair — it’s a celebration of vision, craftsmanship, and the enduring power of beauty to move and inspire.
